Notice of Consideration of a Scheme for the Abatement of Rates in Respect of Vacant Properties

Section 9 of the Local Government Rates and Other Matters Act 2019 makes specific provision that elected members of a local authority may make a scheme providing for the abatement of rates in respect of vacant properties, and that such a scheme shall be approved at the local authority budget meeting, concerning the local financial year to which the scheme shall apply.

Louth County Council will consider a scheme providing for abatement of rates in respect of vacant properties, applying in the 2027 local financial year.

Louth County Council welcomes written submissions from the public on this matter specifically covering the potential effects of a scheme providing for the abatement of rates in respect of vacant properties on businesses, individuals and on local authority services.

Submissions must be received by Friday, 28th August 2026 and can be submitted in any of the following ways:

Online Consultation Portal 

By Post: Louth County Council, Millennium Centre, Dundalk, Co Louth, A91 KFW6

Email: ratesvacancyabatement@louthcoco.ie

Signed: David Conway,  Chief Executive  

Dated: 22nd July 2026